gms | German Medical Science

Objective: Despite the rising number of women in higher education and leadership positions the rise of female neurosurgeons still lags behind. Therefore, his study evaluates the gender distribution across all career levels in German neurosurgical departments, aiming at heightening the awareness of the possibility for improving gender equality and its related opportunities.

Methods: Data on gender distribution across all professional levels in German neurosurgical departments were obtained from departmental websites as well as by email and telephone request. Results were additionally analyzed in regard to ownership type of neurosurgical departments.

Results: A total of 141 German neurosurgical departments employing 2312 neurosurgeons were evaluated. Analysis revealed a clear preponderance of men in leadership positions. Among 145 department directors 9 (6.21%) female directors were identified. Of 42 deputy directors and 149 senior physicians 1 (2.38%) and 21 (14.09%) were female, respectively. Women accounted for 167 (23.3%) consultant positions. Board-certified neurosurgeons not holding a consultant position and residents were female in 33.8% and 34.8%, respectively.

Of note, the highest proportion of female department directors (16.1%) and senior physicians (19%) was found in private hospitals.

Conclusion: The number of women in leadership positions in German neurosurgical department is dramatically low, and with hierarchy gender disparity increases. Mentorship, recruitment, the perception of benefits offered by diversity and programs facilitating gender equality, job sharing, parental leave policies and on-day child care programs are needed in order to turn German neurosurgical departments into modern medical departments reflecting the gender profile of our patient population.